Here are a few simple steps to help you find your niche:

Step 1: Look at What You Already Do Well

Before you start reinventing the wheel, take a good look at your existing skills. Have you been the go-to person for organising events or fixing tech hiccups in your last job? Are you a whiz at writing snappy emails or designing eye-catching flyers?

Think about tasks you’ve enjoyed (or at least didn’t hate) in past roles. Your niche doesn’t have to be something groundbreaking - it just needs to be something you can do well and enjoy enough to repeat for clients.

Tip: Grab a notebook and list out your top skills. Circle the ones you’d love to offer as services.

Step 2: Consider What’s in Demand

Not every skill will be equally marketable, so it’s worth doing a little research. Are small businesses looking for help with social media management? Are e-commerce stores crying out for VAs to handle customer inquiries?

Take a look at job boards like Upwork or PeoplePerHour to see what clients are asking for. You’ll likely spot some recurring themes - and those could be your ticket to finding a niche with plenty of demand.

Real Talk: It’s okay if you don’t land on your 'forever niche' right away. Many freelancers start broad and refine their focus as they work with clients.

Step 3: Test the Water

Still unsure? Try offering a few different services at first and see what sticks. Sometimes, you won’t know if you like doing something until you actually try it (and sometimes you’ll discover you really don’t).

Create a portfolio or pitch to clients for a variety of tasks - content writing, admin support, social media updates - and take note of what you enjoy and what brings in the most income.

Step 4: Make It Specific

Once you’ve identified a skill or service that’s in demand and that you love doing, it’s time to niche down. Instead of saying, 'I help with admin tasks', you could say, 'I help solopreneurs manage their inboxes and schedules so they can focus on growing their business.'

Getting specific doesn’t limit your options - it helps clients understand exactly how you can help them.

Step 5: Build a Portfolio and Refine Your Pitch

Once you’ve got your niche, start tailoring your portfolio and pitches to that audience. Highlight your expertise and include any testimonials (even if they’re from past colleagues or small projects).

Example: If your niche is social media, create a portfolio showing your ability to design posts, schedule content, and track engagement metrics.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing your niche might feel like a big decision, but remember: it’s not set in stone. Start with what feels right, adapt as you go, and let your skills and experiences guide you.

If you’re looking for more practical tips to get your freelance journey off the ground, be sure to subscribe to Notes from the Edge!

The post How to Choose the Right Niche for Your VA or Freelance Business appeared first on On the open road.

Over the years, I’ve built on those early skills and now tackle a wide range of tasks, from creating and managing websites (hosting, domains names and records), to editing videos, designing newsletters, and building online courses and shops. I also handle social media updates, design flyers and logos, manage events on platforms like Eventbrite and Facebook, and oversee Google Analytics and Google Ads accounts.

On the creative side, I write blog posts, type and format books for e-publishing. I also type emails from dictation. A lot of these skills have their roots in my days as a personal assistant in an office, proving that so much of what you learn can be repurposed and built upon.

Becoming a digital nomad or virtual assistant doesn’t doesn't necessarily require years of formal training. If you’ve got a laptop, an internet connection, and a few skills under your belt, you’re ready to get started. Here’s a breakdown of some of the many ways you can earn a living while working remotely:

1. Administrative Support

If you’re organised and love ticking tasks off a to-do list, these roles might be perfect for you:

• Email Management: Taming inbox chaos, organising folders, and responding to enquiries.
• Calendar Scheduling: Keeping clients on track by managing their appointments and reminders.
• Data Entry: Inputting and updating information in spreadsheets or databases.
• Document Formatting: Polishing presentations, proposals, and reports to look professional.
• Virtual Receptionist: Answering calls, scheduling appointments, and providing customer support.

2. Creative Services

Let loose your artistic side with jobs that allow you to flex your creative muscles:

• Content Writing: Writing blog posts, website copy, newsletters, and more.
• Graphic Design: Designing logos, social media templates, brochures, or business cards.
• Video Editing: Editing footage for YouTube, social media, or promotional campaigns.
• Photography Editing: Touching up images for websites, social media, or branding.
• Illustration: Creating custom artwork for brands, books, or merchandise.

3. Marketing Support

If you have a knack for storytelling or love digging into data, marketing could be your forte:

• Social Media Management: Planning posts, scheduling content, and engaging with followers.
• SEO Optimisation: Researching keywords and tweaking content to rank higher on Google.
• Email Marketing: Creating campaigns, designing newsletters, and managing email lists.
• Affiliate Marketing Management: Coordinating affiliate programmess and tracking performance.
• Ad Campaigns: Setting up and managing ads on platforms like Google or Facebook.

4. Technical and IT Support

If you're tech-savvy, you'll be in your element:

• Website Maintenance: Updating plugins, fixing minor issues, and refreshing content.
• Online Store Management: Managing e-commerce platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
• Tech Troubleshooting: Helping clients set up software or solve tech issues.
• App and Tool Setup: Assisting with integrations and configuring productivity tools.

5. Customer and Client Services

Enjoy helping people? These roles focus on providing a first-rate service:

• Customer Support: Handling enquiries and resolving issues via email, chat, or social media.
• Order Processing: Managing customer orders and coordinating deliveries.
• Community Management: Engaging with online groups or forums to build strong communities.

6. Research and Specialised Tasks

If you’re detail-oriented or enjoy digging into new topics, these could be for you:

• Online Research: Gathering data for blogs, projects, or business strategies.
• Bookkeeping: Tracking expenses, generating invoices, and managing financial records.
• Event Coordination: Planning virtual events or assisting with in-person arrangements remotely.
• Project Management: Overseeing team workflows, setting deadlines, and ensuring smooth operations.

7. Education and Coaching

Share your knowledge and help others grow:

• Online Tutoring: Teaching languages, skills, or academic subjects remotely.
• Coaching: Guiding clients in areas like fitness, career development, or productivity.
• Course Creation: Developing materials for online courses and webinars.

Start Small, Dream Big

Chances are, you already have some or all of the skills needed to get started. Many digital nomads and virtual assistants learn as they go, picking up new abilities along the way.

Ready to take the leap? Start with one or two services that match your strengths, then expand as you gain confidence. For more tips, ideas, and support, sign up for my newsletter below—you’ll get practical advice and a little inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

The post What Can You Do as a Digital Nomad or Virtual Assistant? appeared first on On the open road.

Getting that first client can feel like the toughest part of starting your remote work journey, but it’s also the most exciting! With the right approach and a bit of perseverance, you’ll find opportunities are closer than you think. Here are some tried-and-trusted strategies to help you get started.

1. Start with Your Network
Your first client might be closer than you realise. Let friends, family, and former colleagues know about your services. Even if they don’t need help, they may know someone who does.
How to do it:
- Post on LinkedIn or other social platforms: 'I’m starting a new chapter as a virtual assistant! If you or someone you know needs help with [specific task], I’d love to chat.'
- Email former colleagues or mentors to share your new venture.

2. Join Online Communities
Freelancer and digital nomad groups on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit are full of potential clients. These communities often have job postings or people asking for recommendations.
Pro tip:
- Don’t just lurk—engage! Offer helpful advice or share tips, so when someone needs a VA, you’re top of mind.

3. Leverage Freelance Platforms
Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour are great places to find your first gig. While competition can be fierce, crafting a strong profile will help you stand out.
Tips for Success:
- Use a professional photo and write a concise, engaging bio.
- Highlight specific skills or niches (e.g., “I specialize in social media management for small businesses”).
- Apply for smaller, simpler jobs first to build reviews and experience.

4. Create a Simple Portfolio
Even if you’re just starting out, you can showcase your skills with mock projects or examples of past work (from a job or personal projects). A simple, one-page website or a well-organized LinkedIn profile works wonders.
What to Include:
- A short bio about you and your services.
- Examples of work: A mock social media calendar, a newsletter design, or a sample blog post.
- Testimonials: Even a kind word from a former boss adds credibility.

5. Pitch Yourself Confidently
Cold pitching might sound intimidating, but it’s a fantastic way to find clients. Research small businesses or solopreneurs who could use your services, and send them a personalized email explaining how you can help.
Example Pitch:
Hi [Name],
I noticed your [business/project] and really admire [specific detail]. I specialize in [specific task], and I’d love to help you [solve a problem or achieve a goal]. Let me know if we can chat about how I can support you!

6. Offer a Limited-Time Discount or Free Trial
To build trust with potential clients, consider offering a small discount or a free initial task. This lowers the barrier to entry and gives them a chance to see your skills in action.
Example:
'I’m offering a free 1-hour trial of my [specific service] to my first three clients. Let’s see how I can help you!'

7. Stay Consistent and Patient
Finding your first client might not happen overnight, but persistence pays off. Dedicate time each day to reaching out, applying for jobs, and refining your approach.
Remember:
- Each 'no' gets you closer to a 'yes'.
- Keep improving your skills and portfolio while you search.

Ready to Get Started?
The journey to landing your first client is as much about persistence as it is about strategy. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate every step forward.

Want more tips for building a thriving remote career? Subscribe to Notes from the Edge for weekly insights and inspiration!

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